It's been rumored for quite some time now that Porsche is considering a Panamera coupe, but now it has an even greater excuse to make it happen. It's called the BMW 8 Series and, according to Autocar, Porsche is planning not one but two Panamera coupe variants that could arrive as early as next year. Like the 8 Series, they'll have a 2+2 configuration and will also serve as alternatives to potential 911 customers who require a larger rear seat.

Along with the 8 Series, Porsche has apparently identified another target for its new gran touring coupes: the Aston Martin Vantage. Turning the Panamera into a coupe in the spirit of the beloved 928 is really not a serious challenge, but rather boils down to whether a business case can be made. Turns out it can.

"As a designer there are no limits to what I can conceive," said Porsche design boss Michael Mauer. "I believe it is the design department's role to sketch and consider every model it can for the future so that we are ready should anyone wish to pursue a project. But if you are asking me to confirm if such projects are on the way then you are going to be disappointed. It is not my role to consider such things."

Fortunately, the latest generation Panamera's MSB platform is flexible, meaning it can be shortened. We still don't know what the exact differences will be between the two coupes (assuming there are in fact two), but sources claim neither will carry the Panamera name.

Hopefully, a three-digit numerical sequence will be assigned because, after all, these are gran tourers rather than more practical vehicles like the Panamera, Cayenne, and Macan. What will be under the hood? Well, just look at what the Panamera has to offer. Same platform. Same powertrain options. Makes sense. Therefore, expect at least one plug-in hybrid option. Hopefully we'll see at least a concept of what Porsche has in mind for this potential reborn 928 at Frankfurt this September.